In a remarkable and unexpected moment at the newly opened National Judicial Museum and Archive (NIMA), Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud engaged with an AI-powered lawyer during a visit to the Supreme Court's premises. This encounter, which took place in the midst of exploring the museum, offered a glimpse into the future of legal technology.
During the visit, Chief Justice Chandrachud, accompanied by senior justices, decided to test the AI’s legal knowledge by posing a critical and controversial question: “Is the death penalty constitutional in India?” The AI, dressed in a traditional advocate’s coat, responded with confidence and accuracy, affirming that the death penalty is indeed constitutional, though it is reserved for the "rarest of rare cases," as established by the Supreme Court in cases of extreme severity. The precision and clarity of the AI’s response impressed the Chief Justice and his colleagues, earning it a round of applause for its effective handling of such a complex legal issue.
Known for his advocacy of integrating technology into the judicial system, Chief Justice Chandrachud has long emphasized the potential of AI to alleviate administrative burdens and accelerate legal proceedings. However, he remains cautious, mindful of the ethical and systemic challenges that may arise from unchecked AI deployment. This spontaneous demonstration of the AI’s capabilities highlighted both the promise and the challenges of using technology in law.
The exchange occurred during the inauguration of NIMA, a museum designed to celebrate India’s judicial history and position itself among the world's premier judicial museums. Chief Justice Chandrachud praised the team behind the museum, which had completed the ambitious project in just two years, drawing parallels to their earlier success with the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya at Teen Murti Bhavan.
As Chief Justice Chandrachud approaches his retirement on November 10, he expressed pride in the museum, viewing it as a symbol of the Indian judiciary’s unwavering commitment to protecting citizens' fundamental rights. For him, the museum is more than just an archive; it represents a living testament to the rule of law and the judiciary’s evolving role in an ever-changing world.
This interaction with the AI lawyer encapsulated the Chief Justice’s legacy—a fusion of tradition and technological innovation—demonstrating that while the law may evolve, its foundational principles remain constant. As he nears the end of his tenure, this moment serves as a metaphor for his efforts to bridge the past and future of India’s justice system.
